Music and Art in Education

Growing up I was a very shy and quiet girl. I had friends and I could make friends easily but I also enjoyed observing my peers. It was sometimes difficult for me to express myself because I didn't know how to or was scared that others would not like me.

When I was in 6th grade, the band director at the Jr. High came over with different instruments for us to see if we wanted to join the band. I desperately wanted to play percussion (my older sister was a percussionist and I wanted to be like her). Once the school year ended, I went to the Jr. High to take a test to see if I'd be good at percussion. I passed the written exam with flying colors and promptly started summer band camp where I learned the basic fundamentals of drumming.

Continuing through my school career, it was apparent that I struggled with general anxiety disorder. It never got to the point where I had panic attacks but I would overthink and stress out about little things. We had an open period, during school, where you could choose which classroom to go to. I always chose the band room because that is where I didn't feel any anxiety or stress. I could be creative and express myself through my music.

Music and the arts give children the confidence that can come no other way. Because I had an outlet, I was able to excel in my other educational aspirations. Music in schools teaches how to work as a team to create something beautiful, it improves coordination and enhances auditory skills.

When you don't feel safe expressing feelings out loud, music provides that place where you can express how you may be feeling.